Spirit of The Seventies’ Yamaha street tracker

Sometimes it’s the relatively simple custom jobs that are the most effective. And this street tracker from London-based Spirit of The Seventies illustrates the point.

Spirit III is based on a 1978 Yamaha XS650, and once again, SOTS have got the paintjob exactly right, with a high-impact retro look. But it’s not all about the show: this street tracker has been rebuilt in the name of ‘adding lightness’ and improving the handling.

The frame has been de-lugged, shortened and powdercoated, and fitted with lightweight bodywork. The engine internals are stock, but breathing has been improved by the most cost-effective way known to man: K&N filters up front and a custom exhaust system out back.

The 18” front wheel now runs an R6 front caliper—and an FZR1000 floating disc—and the forks have been stiffened up with a Tarozzi brace. New shocks keep the back end planted. The cockpit gets an upgrade with Renthal bars and grips, and a very smart Spirit-designed seat. (The battery and electronics have been relocated to underneath the seat.)

It’s a simple but beautiful example of the street tracker genre, and I’m betting it’s an absolute blast to ride too.